Mullins admits Hurricane Fly concern

Willie Mullins admits Hurricane Fly could struggle in Sunday’s Irish Champion Hurdle due to the conditions at Leopardstown.

The 11-year-old is seeking a record fifth straight victory in the Irish Champion Hurdle and can stretch his unbeaten run at Leopardstown to 10 starts.

Hurricane Fly is the pick of the six runners and has beaten rival Jezki on their two previous meetings this season.

But Mullins expects a tougher challenge on Sunday, despite his stable star boasting a formidable record at the Dublin venue.

“Our fellow really excels on soft ground, so it’s probably not ideal, but at this stage we have to take what we get,” said the County Carlow handler.

“I hope it will be a good race on Sunday.

“Hurricane Fly is a small but very strong horse with a big heart and he doesn’t like to lose, winning is part of his make-up and he’s very determined.

“You wouldn’t think he was an 11-year-old on a morning. Early in his career he missed races through injuries and needed time out every so often as he was so strong and wilful.”

Hurricane Fly won the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham in 2011 and 2013 but was beaten by Jezki in their latest clash.

He will once again be ridden by Ruby Walsh, who led Mullins’ charge to his 21st Grade One victory at Leopardstown in December.